In the wake of a devastating rocket attack in the village of Majdal Shams, Lebanon is on high alert as it prepares for a possible retaliation from Israel. The attack, which took place on Saturday, resulted in the tragic deaths of 12 children aged between 10 and 20 years old. Diplomatic and intelligence sources have reported heightened tensions, with terror groups affiliated with Hezbollah and Iran reportedly evacuating positions along the Syrian-Lebanese border.

According to the Syrian Observatory, "Groups loyal to Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah are evacuating their points south of Damascus, Quneitra, and West Kalmon in anticipation of Israeli attacks." The Lebanese Broadcasting Corporation channel (LBC) has also claimed that "Israel has decided to attack Lebanon, and the matter is already finalized." Efforts are now underway to limit the scope and location of Israel's response, with a focus on avoiding major cities, particularly Beirut, in order to prevent a strong reaction from Hezbollah.

Following a cabinet meeting on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant were authorized to make decisions regarding Israel's response in Lebanon, although Ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir abstained from the decision-making process.

Meanwhile, the United States and the global community are attempting to ease tensions along the Israeli-Lebanese border. One strategy being employed is the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the importance of diffusing the conflict along Israel's northern border during a press conference in Japan. "It's so important that we help diffuse that conflict," he stated, emphasizing the need to prevent further escalation.

As Lebanon anxiously prepares for potential Israeli retaliation, diplomatic efforts continue in a bid to deescalate the situation. The international community is keen on preventing the spread of violence and fostering peace between the two nations.